Reebok ends endorsement deal with Roddick

Reebok International Ltd. on Friday dropped tennis star Andy Roddick of Austin as a spokesman for its athletic shoes, apparel and accessories. However, a deal with the Lacoste apparel brand may be in the wings.

In next week's issue, Street & Smith's SportsBusiness Journal reports Roddick could sign a major endorsement contract with Lacoste as early as next week.

Tennis sources say the multiyear deal would pay Roddick about $5 million annually, although other sources dispute those figures. At Lacoste, Roddick would become "the centerpiece of its efforts to promote its brand" in the United States, according to the SportsBusiness Journal.

The Reebok-Roddick relationship dates back to May 2000. But effective May 1, Roddick no longer will endorse Reebok products.

"Throughout our relationship, Andy has always been a loyal ambassador for the brand and has continuously proven himself to be a player capable of bringing intense energy and excitement back into the sport of tennis, with a talent and charisma to forever change the game," Reebok (NYSE: RBK), based in Canton, Mass., says in a statement.

"As our contract came to a close, and after carefully considering what is in the best interest of our business, Reebok has elected to not continue this partnership."

A representative of Washington, D.C.-based SFX Sports Group Inc., which manages Roddick's career, couldn't be reached for comment.